The general rule about contracts restraining a lawful profession is that they are:

The general rule about contracts restraining a lawful profession is that they are:

• A. Void to the extent of restraint
• B. Enforceable if reasonable
• C. Valid if signed at the start of employment
• D. Prohibited only for non-compete terms

Answer: (A)

In California, any contract that restrains a person from engaging in a lawful profession, trade, or business is void to the extent of the restraint. This rule is codified to promote free competition and allow individuals to pursue their livelihood without being blocked by agreements between others. Because of this, a restraint is not saved by claiming it’s reasonable or by timing it—the default position is that the restriction is void to the extent it curtails the ability to work. There are only narrow exceptions (such as certain restraints in the sale of a business or other specific contexts) where a restraint may be enforceable, but the general rule remains that restraints on practicing a lawful profession are void to the extent of the restraint.

In California, any contract that restrains a person from engaging in a lawful profession, trade, or business is void to the extent of the restraint. This rule is codified to promote free competition and allow individuals to pursue their livelihood without being blocked by agreements between others. Because of this, a restraint is not saved by claiming it’s reasonable or by timing it—the default position is that the restriction is void to the extent it curtails the ability to work.

There are only narrow exceptions (such as certain restraints in the sale of a business or other specific contexts) where a restraint may be enforceable, but the general rule remains that restraints on practicing a lawful profession are void to the extent of the restraint.